1. An idea was conceived to plan and implement a
horticultural project for socially disadvantaged growers in
urban and periurban area in Memphis, in collaboration
with University of Memphis. Since land is a limiting factor,
hydroponics crop production system was found to be the
best alternative to be introduced. First, growers were
trained on the theoretical aspect of cultural practices
involved in hydroponics, emphasizing the challenges
involved in the system. A total of three training sessions
on hydroponic cropping system were conducted in
collaboration with the University of Memphis faculty
members to train the trainers, growers, school teachers
and students. A total of 20 trainers and growers were
trained at each session on hydroponic production system
of lettuce and squash. Seedlings were provided in setting-
up the hydroponic system. The implementation of the
project was closely monitored through email, telephone
conversation and site visits. Squash flowers were sold to
high end markets at $0.60 per flower. A weekly income of
$70 to $80 was generated from this project. The trainers
and growers have gained knowledge and confidence in
implementing the project in the coming season; similar
projects are being planned. Lessons learned through
implementing the project, the dos’ and don’ts, will help
implement the projects successfully.
Urban and Peri-Urban Hydroponics Crop Production:
Project for the Socially Disadvantaged Growers
Dharma Pitchay*1, Joseph Loeb2 and Steven Kennedy1
1Dept. of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Human and Natural Sciences,
Tennessee State University, 3500 John A. Merritt Blvd. Nashville, TN 37209,
2University of Memphis, Dept. of Biology, Memphis, Tennessee
Contact info: dpitchay@tnstate.edu ; Tel: 615 963-4890
The authors wish to acknowledge
USDA for funding this project
Explaining the theoretical
component of hydroponic
production system with excellent
images. This was convincing and
motivating to the project
participants.
Providing individual
attention and
explaining the details
on a one-to-one
basis to clear any
doubt and to avoid
any costly mistakes
during the
implementation of
the project.
Every aspect of the planning, managing,
monitoring of the production system, and
marketing should be emphasized, and its
significance highlighted in the supply chain.
Ongoing training program: 3rd
module, focusing on cleanliness
and sanitation to eradicate powdery
mildew through cultural practices.
Keeping pesticides away to ensure
food safety, sustainable
environment and keeping new and
young growers away from pesticide
addiction.
The trust and commitment could
gain the support and assurance of
high-end chef who is committed
to buying the squash blossoms.
Generally, squash is grown to
produce squash fruits. Only female
flowers set fruits. Male flowers are
considered sink with no value to the
grower and to the plant.
Crop maintenance, scouting for pest and disease,
diagnosing nutrient deficiency, and the corrective
measures to be taken was taught when we
encountered iron deficiency symptoms (interveinal
chlorosis of young leaves) and powdery mildew.
School going children also participated in
the program. It turned out to be a
healthy activity spending quality time
with the trainers and acquiring
knowledge in plant science through
interactions and participation. A path to
train future horticultural entrepreneurs.
They are left to fall off the plants. However, in this case, male
squash blossoms were transformed into a delicacy (as shown
in the picture) with the magic touch of a high-end restaurant
chef. The displayed dish is in the menu, prized at $ 9.99.
Growers participated in this program had an added bonus of
flower sale in addition to the fruits.
This project was a success mainly due to
strong partnership, collaboration,
coordination, and the leadership and
commitment of Mr. Joseph Loeb.
Everyone got excited when the squash
seedling plants were brought to the
classroom. It helped us to keep the
momentum going at the right direction.
At this training session, seedling
establishment and transplanting was
taught.
We took the opportunity to train
trainers on the importance of
monitoring and managing pH and
EC of the nutrient solution by taking
readings on a daily basis and making
the necessary pH adjustment and
fertilizer application.
Our training was successful - judging from
the healthy squash plants grown by the
growers after 3 weeks of planting. This
indicates that the growers understood the
challenges of growing crops hydroponically
and have followed the protocols well.
Squash blossoms
Male flower
Female flower